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February 29, 2012

Statement on the US-DPRK Bilateral Talks Results

A Statement from NAKA

The results from the third exploratory round of U.S.-DPRK bilateral talks in Beijing announced today show a sign of improvement and progress towards a peaceful settlement in the Korean Peninsula, as "to improve the atmosphere for dialogue and demonstrate its commitment to denuclearization, the DPRK has agreed to implement a moratorium on long-range missile launches, nuclear tests and nuclear activities at Yongbyon, including uranium enrichment activities" and the U.S. has "agreed to meet with the DPRK to finalize administrative details necessary to move forward with [the] proposed package of 240,000 metric tons of nutritional assistance along with the intensive monitoring required for the delivery of such assistance."

Furthermore, we welcome the following points that came out of the discussions:

The United States reaffirms that it does not have hostile intent toward the DPRK and is prepared to take steps to improve bilateral relationship in the spirit of mutual respect for sovereignty and equality.

The United States reaffirms its commitment to the September 19, 2005 Joint Statement.

The United States recognizes the 1953 Armistice Agreement as the cornerstone of peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

The United States is prepared to take steps to increase people-to-people exchanges, including in the areas of culture, education, and sports.

U.S. sanctions against the DPRK are not targeted against the livelihood of the DPRK people.

The National Association of Korean Americans (NAKA) welcomes this development and urges both parties to implement these measures in earnest, concurrent with other mutual efforts to improve relations and work towards a comprehensive peace settlement in the Korean Peninsula.February 29, 2012Washington, DCThe National Association of Korean Americans (NAKA)www.naka.org

South and North Korean teams marched together in the 2000 and 2004 Olympics, under one flag representing one Korea -- highlighting the Korean people's desire for reunification. This did not happen in the 2008 Olympics, suggesting challenges that remain.

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Long-closed Military Demarcation Line in the DMZ that divides Korea is now open for inter-Korea traffic and exchanges, but the exchanges have slowed down since 2008.

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